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A historic building with arches, a mountain landscape, a swimming pool, and a hot spring. 1
A historic building with a central dome, surrounded by a courtyard with cobblestone paths and arched walkways. 2
A historic square with stone paving, a castle-like building, and a church with domes. 3
A resort with multiple swimming pools and beach umbrellas. 4
A large outdoor swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by buildings and greenery. 5

Rila Monastery day tour with Optional SPA/Thermal baths

By City Tour Sofia
9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Free cancellation available
Price is NZ$39 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 8h+
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Multiple languages

Overview

  • Visit the legendary UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery
  • Explore the spectacular Rila Mountains
  • Learn about Bulgarian history, Orthodox traditions, and monastery life
  • Admire colourful frescoes, unique architecture, and mountain landscapes
  • Optional SPA & thermal baths experience with natural mineral hot springs

Activity location

    • Sofia
    • Sofia, Sofia City Province, Bulgaria

Meeting/Redemption Point

    • Sofia Center, bul. "Yanko Sakazov" 7, 1527 Sofia, Bulgaria | Meet your guide at Vasil Levski Monument, Yanko Sakuzov Blvd 7. Ask for the City Tour travel agency. The van departs at 9:00 AM and will not wait for you if you are late.
    • Sofia, Sofia City Province, Bulgaria

Check availability

Full day tour to RILA Monastery /NO SPA Visit/

  • Activity duration is 8 hours8h
    8h
  • English

Rila Monastery, a UNESCO site and Bulgaria’s spiritual heart, is famed for its frescoes and architecture. Explore the church and courtyard, with free time for photos, souvenirs, or lunch. Spa visit is not included.

Starting time: 9:00 AM
Price details
NZ$39.18 x 1 AdultNZ$39.18
Total
Price is NZ$39.18

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Return transport from Sofia
  • Inclusions
    Scenic drive through the Rila Mountains
  • Inclusions
    Free time to explore the monastery courtyard and souvenir shops - If the Spa option is not being chosen
  • Inclusions
    Optional experience of your choice:
  • Inclusions
    Monastery Museum visit - Only if the Spa option is not being chosen
  • Inclusions
    Spa visit
  • Exclusions
    Meals and drinks (bring your own lunch or purchase locally)
  • Exclusions
    Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Exclusions
    Service charge for guides or drivers
  • Exclusions
    Spa entry tickets
  • Exclusions
    Towels and dressing gowns are not included in the price

Know before you book

    • Not allowed: High-heeled shoes, Short skirts, Shorts
    • Not suitable for: People with mobility impairments

What you can expect

  • Escape the city and discover two of Bulgaria’s most unforgettable experiences in one perfect day — the iconic Rila Monastery and an optional visit to relaxing Rila Spa retreat in the heart of the breathtaking Rila Mountain.

    This full-day tour from Sofia combines culture, history, nature, wellness, and authentic Bulgarian traditions, making it one of the best day trips in Bulgaria.

    Discover the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery

    Enjoy a scenic drive through the spectacular Rila Mountain before arriving at the world-famous Rila Monastery — Bulgaria’s largest and most important Eastern Orthodox monastery and one of the country’s top UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

    Founded in the 10th century by Saint John of Rila, the monastery is one of Bulgaria’s greatest cultural and spiritual landmarks. Surrounded by pine forests and dramatic mountain scenery, Rila Monastery is renowned for its colourful frescoes, elegant arcades, intricate wood carvings, ancient icons, and remarkable Bulgarian Revival architecture.

    If you select the guided option, your professional English-speaking guide will reveal the fascinating history of Rila Monastery, explain the life of Saint John of Rila, and uncover the symbolism behind its spectacular frescoes.

    Relax at the Rila Spa

    Continue your journey to a modern Rila Spa, beautifully located at the foot of the Rila Mountain. Enjoy approximately 2–3 hours in natural thermal mineral pools surrounded by fresh mountain air and stunning scenery.

    The Spa offers indoor and outdoor thermal pools with mineral water known for its relaxing properties. Swim, unwind, and enjoy the peaceful mountain setting after your cultural visit.

    Please bring your swimming costume, towel, and flip-flops for the Spa visit.

    Scenic Return to Sofia

    After a day filled with history, beautiful Rila Mountain scenery, and Spa relaxation, enjoy a comfortable drive back to Sofia.

    Expected return time is approximately 18:30–18:40, depending on traffic.

    Why Travellers Love This Tour

    • Visit the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery.
    • Experience the beauty of the Rila Mountain.
    • Relax at a modern Rila Spa with natural thermal pools.
    • Combine culture, nature, and Spa wellness in one unforgettable day.
    • Comfortable air-conditioned transport.
    • Professional English-speaking guide.
    • Perfect for couples, families, solo travellers, and nature lovers.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    • Sofia
    • Sofia, Sofia City Province, Bulgaria

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    • Sofia Center, bul. "Yanko Sakazov" 7, 1527 Sofia, Bulgaria | Meet your guide at Vasil Levski Monument, Yanko Sakuzov Blvd 7. Ask for the City Tour travel agency. The van departs at 9:00 AM and will not wait for you if you are late.
    • Sofia, Sofia City Province, Bulgaria